EXPERT ADVICE

Places to Visit Before They Disappear

Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Québec

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Credit: Ron Erwin / Getty Images

Why to go now: An idyllic island getaway in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Îles-de-la-Madeleine's white sand beaches and sandstone cliffs are steadily eroding. Strong winds have always been part of life on the islands, and they make for notable kitesurfing. But 'Canadian Geographic' reported last year that the high concentration of sea ice currently shielding the archipelago's shores from destructive storms is disappearing. Climate researchers estimate the protective ice will be gone sometime between 2050 and 2090. Currently, anywhere from four to 43 inches of coast are lost each year, and intense storms can destroy up to three feet along certain cliffs.